MORAY TRADING STANDARDS have concluded an investigation into a “rogue” car dealer that has resulted in a £360 fine – and warned the public against such practices.
The watchdog became aware that Elgin man Chris Gray was dealing in secondhand cars through online sites such as Gumtree and Facebook, placing advertisements for over 30 vehicles.
Ads started to appear in 2010 with more recently Gray ‘trading’ under the name of Asbo Motors. That resulted in letter being sent by Trading Standards to the 26-year-old from McMillan Avenue – these were, however, ignored.
Last week Gray appeared at Elgin Sheriff Court to answer a charge of dealing in secondhand vehicles without a dealer licence.
Manager at Moray Trading Standards, Peter Adamson, said: “Moray Council licences secondhand motor dealers to promote high standards and to protect the public from rogue traders.
“Traders who ignore the rules undermine the licensing system – they put customers at risk and unfairly undercut legitimate traders.”